Then Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul's head, kissed him, and said, "Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance? Then Samuel took a flask of oilThe act of taking a flask of oil is deeply symbolic in the Hebrew tradition. The Hebrew word for "flask" is "pach," which indicates a small container, often used for precious substances. Oil, in this context, is "shemen," a symbol of consecration and the Holy Spirit. Anointing with oil was a sacred act, setting someone apart for a divine purpose. Archaeological findings have shown that anointing was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures, signifying the bestowal of authority and blessing. poured it on Saul’s head
The pouring of oil on the head signifies the transfer of God’s Spirit and authority. In Hebrew, "yatsaq" means to pour or anoint, indicating a deliberate and generous act. This act of anointing Saul marks him as chosen by God, setting him apart as king. Historically, this was a public declaration of God’s choice, and it was a visible sign of divine empowerment for leadership. kissed him
The kiss, in this context, is a gesture of respect and acceptance. The Hebrew word "nashaq" can mean to kiss or to equip, suggesting both a personal and a formal acknowledgment of Saul’s new role. This act by Samuel signifies his personal endorsement and the passing of authority, as well as a sign of loyalty and support for Saul’s kingship. and said, 'Has not the LORD anointed you
Samuel’s words confirm the divine origin of Saul’s anointing. The Hebrew word for "anointed" is "mashach," from which we derive "Messiah," meaning "the anointed one." This rhetorical question emphasizes that it is the LORD, "Yahweh," who has chosen Saul, underscoring the divine will and purpose behind Saul’s kingship. It is a reminder that Saul’s authority is not self-derived but granted by God. ruler over His inheritance?'
The term "ruler" is translated from the Hebrew "nagid," meaning leader or prince, indicating a position of responsibility and stewardship rather than absolute power. "His inheritance" refers to Israel, God’s chosen people, highlighting the sacred trust and responsibility bestowed upon Saul. The concept of Israel as God’s inheritance is rooted in the covenantal relationship established with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and it underscores the theocratic nature of Saul’s kingship, where he is to rule under God’s authority and guidance. Persons / Places / Events 1. SamuelA prophet and judge of Israel, Samuel is a pivotal figure in the transition from the period of judges to the monarchy. He is God's chosen instrument to anoint the first king of Israel. 2. SaulThe first king of Israel, Saul is from the tribe of Benjamin. His anointing marks the beginning of his reign and the establishment of the monarchy in Israel. 3. Anointing with OilA symbolic act signifying God's choice and empowerment of an individual for a specific role or task. In this context, it represents Saul's consecration as king. 4. Inheritance of the LORDRefers to the people of Israel, whom God considers His own possession. Saul is being anointed to rule over God's chosen people. 5. RamahAlthough not mentioned directly in this verse, Ramah is the place where Samuel often resided and where significant events in his ministry occurred. Teaching Points Divine AppointmentGod chooses and equips individuals for specific roles. Just as Saul was anointed for kingship, believers are called and empowered for their unique purposes in God's kingdom. Symbolism of AnointingThe act of anointing with oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit's presence and empowerment. Christians today are spiritually anointed by the Holy Spirit to fulfill God's calling. Leadership and ResponsibilityBeing anointed as a leader comes with the responsibility to lead according to God's will. Saul's anointing reminds us of the importance of seeking God's guidance in leadership roles. God's SovereigntyThe anointing of Saul demonstrates God's sovereign control over the affairs of nations and individuals. Trusting in God's plan is crucial, even when His ways are not immediately clear. Heritage and StewardshipSaul was anointed to rule over God's inheritance, the people of Israel. Believers are stewards of God's gifts and are called to manage them faithfully. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the anointing of Saul as king reflect God's sovereignty in choosing leaders? How can we apply this understanding to our own lives when considering leadership roles? 2. In what ways does the symbolism of anointing with oil in the Old Testament relate to the anointing of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament? 3. What responsibilities come with being anointed or chosen by God for a specific task or role? How can we ensure we are fulfilling these responsibilities faithfully? 4. How does understanding that we are part of God's inheritance influence the way we live and interact with others in the body of Christ? 5. Reflect on a time when you felt called or anointed for a specific purpose. How did you seek God's guidance and empowerment in that situation? How can you continue to rely on Him in your current circumstances? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Samuel 9Provides the background leading up to Saul's anointing, including God's revelation to Samuel about Saul. Exodus 30:22-33Describes the sacred anointing oil and its use, highlighting the significance of anointing in consecrating individuals for God's service. Psalm 2:2Speaks of the anointed one, a term that is later understood as a messianic prophecy, connecting the concept of anointing to the ultimate King, Jesus Christ. Acts 13:21-22Reflects on Saul's reign and God's eventual choice of David, providing a broader context of God's sovereign plan in Israel's monarchy. 1 John 2:20, 27Discusses the anointing of believers by the Holy Spirit, drawing a parallel to the spiritual anointing that Christians receive. People Benjamin, Egyptians, Kish, Matri, Matrites, Rachel, Samuel, SaulPlaces Bethel, Egypt, Gibeah, Gibeath-elohim, Gilgal, Mizpah, Tabor, Zelzah, ZuphTopics Anointed, Appointed, Attackers, Authority, Bottle, Captain, Enemies, Flask, Hands, Heritage, Holy, Inheritance, Isn't, Kiss, Kissed, Kisseth, Leader, Making, Oil, Poured, Poureth, Prince, Reign, Round, Ruler, Safe, Samuel, Saul's, Save, Saying, Sign, Taketh, VialDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Samuel 10:1 2206 Jesus, the Christ
3030 Holy Spirit, power
4488 oil
5234 bottle
5366 king
5370 kingship, human
5489 rank
5898 kissing
7236 Israel, united kingdom
7304 anointing
7735 leaders, political
7773 prophets, role Library The King after Man's Heart
'And Samuel called the people together unto the Lord to Mizpeh; 18. And said unto the children of Israel, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, I brought up Israel out of Egypt, and delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians, and out of the hand of all kingdoms, and of them that oppressed you; 19. And ye have this day rejected your God, who Himself saved you out of all your adversities and your tribulations; and ye have said unto Him, Nay, but set a king over us. Now therefore present yourselves …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScripturePlace of Jesus in the History of the World.
The great event of the History of the world is the revolution by which the noblest portions of humanity have passed from the ancient religions, comprised under the vague name of Paganism, to a religion founded on the Divine Unity, the Trinity, and the Incarnation of the Son of God. It has taken nearly a thousand years to accomplish this conversion. The new religion had itself taken at least three hundred years in its formation. But the origin of the revolution in question with which we have to do …
Ernest Renan—The Life of Jesus And V the Kingdom Undivided and the Kingdom Divided
THE HISTORICAL BOOKS: I and II Samuel. I and II Kings. I and II Chronicles. NOTE.--As these three pairs of books are so closely related in their historical contents, it is deemed best to study them together, though they overlap the two divisions of IV and V. I. CHARTS Chart A. General Contents +--+ " I AND II SAMUEL " +-------------+-----+------+ "Samuel "Saul "David " +-------------+-----+------+----------+ " " " " I AND II KINGS "NOTE.--Biblical …
Frank Nelson Palmer—A Bird's-Eye View of the Bible The Earliest Chapters in Divine Revelation
[Sidenote: The nature of inspiration] Since the days of the Greek philosophers the subject of inspiration and revelation has been fertile theme for discussion and dispute among scholars and theologians. Many different theories have been advanced, and ultimately abandoned as untenable. In its simplest meaning and use, inspiration describes the personal influence of one individual upon the mind and spirit of another. Thus we often say, "That man inspired me." What we are or do under the influence …
Charles Foster Kent—The Origin & Permanent Value of the Old Testament The Trial of Saul.
"And Saul said, Bring hither a burnt offering to me, and peace offerings. And he offered the burnt offering."--1 Samuel xiii. 9. We are all on our trial. Every one who lives is on his trial, whether he will serve God or not. And we read in Scripture of many instances of the trials upon which Almighty God puts us His creatures. In the beginning, Adam, when he was first created, was put upon his trial. He was placed in a beautiful garden, he had every thing given him for his pleasure and comfort; …
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VIII The History Books
[Illustration: (drop cap T) Assyrian idol-god] Thus little by little the Book of God grew, and the people He had chosen to be its guardians took their place among the nations. A small place it was from one point of view! A narrow strip of land, but unique in its position as one of the highways of the world, on which a few tribes were banded together. All around great empires watched them with eager eyes; the powerful kings of Assyria, Egypt, and Babylonia, the learned Greeks, and, in later times, …
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making Letter xxii (Circa A. D. 1129) to Simon, Abbot of S. Nicholas
To Simon, Abbot of S. Nicholas Bernard consoles him under the persecution of which he is the object. The most pious endeavours do not always have the desired success. What line of conduct ought to be followed towards his inferiors by a prelate who is desirous of stricter discipline. 1. I have learned with much pain by your letter the persecution that you are enduring for the sake of righteousness, and although the consolation given you by Christ in the promise of His kingdom may suffice amply for …
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux Blessed are they that Mourn
Blessed are they that mourn. Matthew 5:4 Here are eight steps leading to true blessedness. They may be compared to Jacob's Ladder, the top whereof reached to heaven. We have already gone over one step, and now let us proceed to the second: Blessed are they that mourn'. We must go through the valley of tears to paradise. Mourning were a sad and unpleasant subject to treat on, were it not that it has blessedness going before, and comfort coming after. Mourning is put here for repentance. It implies …
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12 And thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, too little to be among the thousands of Judah
"And thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, too little to be among the thousands of Judah, out of thee shall come forth unto Me (one) [Pg 480] to be Ruler in Israel; and His goings forth are the times of old, the days of eternity." The close connection of this verse with what immediately precedes (Caspari is wrong in considering iv. 9-14 as an episode) is evident, not only from the [Hebrew: v] copulative, and from the analogy of the near relation of the announcement of salvation to the prophecy of disaster …
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament Samuel
Alike from the literary and the historical point of view, the book[1] of Samuel stands midway between the book of Judges and the book of Kings. As we have already seen, the Deuteronomic book of Judges in all probability ran into Samuel and ended in ch. xii.; while the story of David, begun in Samuel, embraces the first two chapters of the first book of Kings. The book of Samuel is not very happily named, as much of it is devoted to Saul and the greater part to David; yet it is not altogether inappropriate, …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links 1 Samuel 10:1 NIV1 Samuel 10:1 NLT1 Samuel 10:1 ESV1 Samuel 10:1 NASB1 Samuel 10:1 KJV
1 Samuel 10:1 Commentaries
Bible Hub |
